Although the Rizal Park Hotel opened its doors to the public in 2017, its history goes beyond centuries. The building where the hotel stands was originally constructed in 1911 as the Army and Navy Club of Manila, designed by William E. Parsons, the consulting architect of the Philippine government during the early American colonial era. Parsons is also known to be the architect behind some of the country's notable structures, including the Philippine General Hospital, The Mansion House in Baguio City, and the famous Manila Hotel.

The neoclassical building was strategically located beside Luneta (now Rizal Park), offering sweeping views of Manila Bay, and quickly became a prestigious social and recreational hub for American military officers and expatriates living in the Philippines. It included bowling alleys, sports courts, bars, ballrooms, a restaurant, and gorgeous views of Manila Bay.

The architectural design of the Rizal Park Hotel is deeply rooted in the neoclassical style popular during the American colonial period. Designed by William E. Parsons, his trademark arches and use of Capiz (thin, flat, translucent shells native to the Philippines) shell windows are seen throughout the building. The façade featured also had wide verandas, high ceilings, and wide corridors, which are essential ventilation features for a tropical country like the Philippines during the pre-air conditioning era.

The building’s location also offered unbeatable views of Manila Bay, with the rear of the structure opening up to views of it, providing not just scenic beauty but also a natural cooling breeze. During its time as the Manila Army and Navy Club, it featured a large Oriental reception room, a tea room for ladies, and an opulent dancing pavilion, all arranged to encourage social interaction among its elite American clientele.

Fast forward to its restoration project in the 2010s, much of the club's architectural design was retained. For Simon Paz, the Chairman of Oceanville Hotel and Spa Corporation, the goal was to preserve its features while conforming it to Philippine and international safety and engineering standards. Its neoclassical features, like columns, moldings, and arched windows designed by Parsons were maintained, while the grand staircase, distinct black and white flooring, and lobby areas were carefully restored.

Deteriorated features were reconstructed due to irreparable damage, which has sparked debates among preservationists. Nonetheless, the management ensured that new features matched the old ones in design and other visual qualities. They also refrained from using chemical or physical treatments like sandblasting, which caused damage to historic materials. All these efforts were done along with adding contemporary amenities like elevators, air conditioning, and modern plumbing.

Ranging from Deluxe Rooms to opulent Army Navy Club Suites, Rizal Park Hotel offers Filipino-Colonial guest rooms, allowing guests to experience the ambience of early 20th-century Manila while enjoying the comforts of a 21st-century hotel.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Within and outside the hotel, Rizal Park Hotel offers an immersive blend of heritage, leisure, and cultural connection. Take a dip in the infinity pool with sweeping views of Manila Bay or break a sweat at the gym, complete with state-of-the-art fitness equipment. After a busy day out, head to the spa for relaxing massage treatments or unwind at the sauna. As a living heritage site itself, you can find remnants of its glorious past through the Heritage-themed decor and interiors.

Aside from its on-site facilities, Rizal Park Hotel puts you at the heart of the capital's best sights. From the hotel, visit and stroll around Rizal Park, named after the country's national hero, Jose Rizal. For art and history lovers, don't miss the trio of national museums: the National Museum of Anthropology, the National Museum of Fine Arts, and the National Museum of Natural History. Guests can also immerse themselves in the country's Spanish colonial history at Intramuros, the famous walled city dotted with preserved structures from the Spanish era.

Rizal Park Hotel offers an exceptional setting for hosting events and special celebrations, combining old-world grandeur with modern amenities. Whether celebrating an anniversary, birthday, reunion, or baby shower, the hotel offers flexible event spaces that can be customized to match the celebration’s theme and tone. You can also get in touch with the management and staff for special surprises and other services to make your day extra special and memorable.